What Causes Clogs And How To Prevent Them
Have you ever been ready to start your day, only to find your sink refusing to drain, or worse, water backing up in your shower? It's a frustrating start to any day and a common household nuisance. Clogged drains can lead to more complex plumbing issues if not addressed on time. In this blog, we'll explore the common reasons behind clogs and share some practical tips to keep your drains clear.
Understanding The Common Causes Of Clogs
Clogs can be sneaky, causing inconvenience and sometimes costly repairs. But what really causes them? Let’s find out!
Debris And Foreign Objects
The main culprits are often items that shouldn't be there in the first place. Grease, food scraps, oil and paper towels can block pipes, leading to significant issues. It's essential to be mindful of what goes down your drains.
Heavy Rain
Surprisingly, nature plays a role too. Heavy rain can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to blockages. This can be an issue in areas with inadequate drainage infrastructure.
Tree Roots
Those lovely trees in your yard might be the unseen enemy. Tree roots are attracted to the moisture in pipes, often leading to ruptures and blockages. Regular checks can help identify this problem early on.
Broken Pipes
Over time, even the sturdiest pipes can break, allowing dirt and debris to enter and cause blockages. This is often a result of natural wear and tear or external pressures.
Why Do Drains Get Blocked During Heavy Rain?
The sudden influx of water, along with mud, leaves and other debris, can clog your pipes. This is especially true if the system isn't designed for such volumes of water. It's important to ensure your drainage systems are regularly cleaned and inspected, particularly before the rainy season.
Steps To Prevent Clogs In Your Home Plumbing System
Simple habits and regular maintenance can help you keep your drains clear and functional. Below are some steps you can take to prevent clogs and ensure your plumbing system remains in top condition:
- Regularly clean drain stoppers and strainers.
- Avoid pouring grease and oil down the sink.
- Use a compost bin for food scraps instead of garbage disposal.
- Schedule routine plumbing maintenance checks.
- Consider installing drain guards to catch hair and other debris.
Items That Should Never Go Down Your Drains
Certain seemingly harmless items can wreak havoc on your plumbing system over time. To help you avoid common mistakes and keep your drains clear, let's look at the items that should never find their way down your drains.
Grease And Oil
They solidify in pipes, causing blockages.
Coffee Grounds
They accumulate and can easily clog pipes.
Eggshells
They can stick to pipes and create blockages.
Produce Stickers
These stickers can act as a catchpoint, trapping other debris.
Cotton Swabs And Dental Floss
They don’t break down and can tangle up, causing clogs.
Debunking Common Myths About Drain Cleaning
Contrary to popular belief, not all DIY solutions are safe or effective. Chemical drain cleaners can harm your pipes and your health. Also, hot water isn't always the solution—it can damage PVC pipes. So, it's better to seek professional help for persistent issues.
Don't Let A Clogged Drain Disrupt Your Routine
Understanding and preventing clogs is key to maintaining a healthy plumbing system. If you're facing blocked drains in Darwin, turn to Absolute Plumbing Australia. Our team will not only address the immediate issue but also provide you with professional advice to prevent future blockages. We use state-of-the-art tools and techniques, including CCTV for precise diagnostics and hydro-jetting for effective cleaning. Contact our plumbers today!
